We all have those days when we feel uncomfortable in our bodies. Maybe your jeans don’t fit right, or you saw a photo of yourself that made you feel bad. On days like that, it’s easy to want to cancel plans or stay in bed. But isolating can make those feelings worse. Being around people who care about you—whether that’s a friend, a partner, or even coworkers—can help get you out of your head and remind you that you’re valued for much more than how you look.
Another thing that can help is journaling. Writing your thoughts down can make them feel less heavy. When everything stays in your head, it can build up and feel worse. But when you write, you give your feelings a place to go. It’s like having a safe space to be honest without anyone judging you. You might even discover patterns or realize what’s really bothering you. Sometimes, seeing the words on paper makes you feel more in control.
Speaking of control, when life feels stressful—like working a demanding job, dealing with money issues, or facing relationship problems—it’s easy to turn your focus toward food, weight, or your appearance. It can feel like the one thing you can control. But what are you avoiding by doing that? Are you upset about your body, or is something else going on that feels out of control or scary?
Now think about your identity. What makes you you besides how you look? Maybe you’re a great friend, a thoughtful parent, a hard worker, or someone who always makes people laugh. You might be proud of finishing a tough project, getting through a hard season in life, or showing up for people when they needed you. Your personality, values, achievements, and skills all matter so much more than how your body looks. Remind yourself that your body is not the problem—it doesn’t need to be fixed.
So the next time you’re having a bad body image day, try to be kind to yourself. Distract yourself with people who lift you up. Write your thoughts down. Ask what’s really going on. And remember who you are beyond your appearance. You are smart, strong, and so much more than a number on a scale or a reflection in a mirror.